Ah, the age-old parenting dilemma: it’s blazing outside, the kids are bouncing off the walls, and you need to get out of the house for everyone’s sanity. On days like these, when the heat feels endless and perspective feels important, we’re especially grateful for the privilege of safe, cool places to play. Save this list for the next time you hear “I’m bored!” on repeat and try one of these family-friendly ways to beat the heat in Austin.
Head to the water
In Austin, you can choose from numerous city pools that are free or charge an affordable entrance fee. You can also check out one of the area splash pads. Even the big kids can have a blast splashing! And of course, there are some gorgeous swimming holes in the area, as well as water parks near Austin. Pack up your gear and take a little day trip to the water.
- Best Swimming Holes
- Blue Hole Regional Park
- Emma Long Metro Park
- Pools in Austin
- Quarry Splash Pad
- Rock’N River Water Park
- Schlitterbahn Water Park
- Splash Pads
- Typhoon Texas Water Park
- Volente Beach Water Park
- Water Parks & Amusement Parks
You can’t beat the beauty of downtown Austin from the views of Lady Bird Lake. Get out there in a canoe, paddle boat, or kayak, or opt for a leisurely cruise.
- Fun Ways to Enjoy Lady Bird Lake
- Where to Rent Kayaks, Canoes & SUPs on Lady Bird Lake
- What to do on Lake Travis
- Guide to Seeing the Bats in Austin
Indoor Play
When the A/C calls louder than the sun, it’s time to chase energy indoors. Bounce, climb, race through laser tag, or beat animated chaos in arcades—these air-conditioned spots let kids burn off energy, and parents can actually relax.
- Arcades in Austin
- Places to Play Indoors in Austin
- Awesome Places for Babies and Toddlers in Austin
- Places to Swim Indoors in Austin
Reviews: Austin Bouldering Project, iFly Austin, Crux Climbing Center, Catch Air Round Rock, Dart’Em Up, Monster Mini Golf
Museums & Excursions
Need a break from high-energy fun? Slide into a cool museum—think hands-on science at Thinkery or art at UT’s Blanton. Craving something novel? Try a drive-thru safari, where you stay in the comfort of your car while giraffes greet you.
- Children’s Museums Near Austin That Are Worth the Trip
- Top 10 Musuems for Kids
- When to Visit Austin Museums for Free
- Drive-thru Safari Parks Near Austin
Frosty Treats
Go ahead and indulge in some delicious cold treats to help you cool off on these hot days.
- Dairy-Free Ice Cream Shops in Austin
- Delicious Snow Cones in Austin
- Favorite Ice Cream in Austin
- Where to Get Cold Treats in Austin
Movies & Theatre
You gotta love settling into a nice, cold theatre for a few hours of entertainment with the family.
- Free & Cheap Summer Movies
- Paramount Theater’s Summer Movies Series
- Summer Stock Austin
- Summer Theatre Roundup
Stay cool out there, friends!
For vegan families or families with allergies who still want a frozen treat, check out Sweet Ritual, a locally owned women’s business since 2011!! http://www.sweetritual.com/
Yes, Sweet Ritual is great. Thanks for the reminder!